Traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other key stakeholders across Ogun East Senatorial District have expressed strong support for the creation of Ijebu State.

The stakeholders' meeting on the creation of Ijebu State was held at the Awujale Palace in Ijebu Ode.

Speaking at the meeting, Senator Gbenga Daniel, who represents Ogun East Senatorial District, emphasized that the old Ijebu Province, created by the colonial government in 1923, is the only one of the old administrative provinces in Nigeria that has not yet evolved into a state.

He stated, “The agitation for a state made up of the old Ijebu Province, now comprising the Ijebu and Remo Divisions of Ogun State, has been consistent, vigorous, and will continue unabated until justice and fairness prevail. This is because the Ijebu people constitute a distinct and autonomous tribe within the Yoruba nation."

Senator Daniel further explained, "Both the Ijebu and Remo Divisions were once inconveniently administered as part of the old Abeokuta Province. This error was quickly recognized, leading to the creation of Ijebu Province to give the people the opportunity for their own development. The creation of Ogun State reversed this progressive step of 1923. The people of the old Ijebu Province have since been clamoring for a separate state, and this agitation is both justifiable and persistent."

Senator Daniel also acknowledged the tireless efforts of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba (Dr) S.K. Adetona, GCON, in the ongoing struggle for state creation, adding that Kabiyesi's efforts will soon bring the expected success in creating the new state. He also commended all the traditional rulers, elders, and leaders of thought, both past and present, for their role in reviving the agitation.

In his address, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Dr. Sikiru Adetona, GCON, remarked that while Ijebu and Remo people are united, political dynamics sometimes cause divisions. However, he expressed gratitude for the ongoing unity of purpose regarding the creation of a new state for the old Ijebu Province.

"We thank the National Assembly for advancing the Bill on the creation of Ijebu State, which has already passed its first and second readings. This has strengthened our resolve to ensure the realization of Ijebu State. Research has clearly shown, as we will see in this meeting, that all the requirements for a viable new state—such as population, economic, human, and material resources—are readily available to us, as they are God-given."

He further appealed to the people, saying, "What binds us together is far greater than what divides us. We must remain united and seize the opportunity the current Federal government is offering us."

The event culminated in a unanimous agreement among traditional rulers, religious leaders, and council chairmen from across Ogun East Senatorial District to support the creation of Ijebu State.